How to clean the inside of a computer (computer)

Is your computer making noises? Is there dust accumulated on the outside surface of the fan? Has it been more than two months without you cleaning its interior? The dust that is inside your computer can cause component failure, the fan and above all it can cause a lower performance. Keep it running efficiently simply by taking the time to clean the inside. Don't wait for your fan to fail and cause overheating!

Steps

Step 1. Get the necessary tools

You will need a can of compressed air or a small compressor, in addition to a screwdriver in case it is necessary to remove screws to open the machine. Also a small vacuum cleaner to clean up any mess made when opening the computer (just don't use it to clean inside). Wearing a dust mask is optional, but recommended if you want to avoid occasional sneezing.

Step 2. Turn off your computer

Turn off your computer and any surge protectors or alternative power sources to which it may be connected. Most computers have a main power switch on the back. Although most people leave this switch in the on position, it is best to turn it off for safety reasons.

Step 3. Unplug all accessories

After you've shut down your computer, disconnect all cables going to external components and power sources. Make sure you don't leave cables connected while cleaning your computer, especially the power cable and the video cable.

Step 4. Work in the appropriate area

If it has been a long time since you last cleaned, or rather, you have never cleaned your computer, it will be good that you are in an appropriate work area to carry out the cleaning. Although it is possible to clean the computer right where it is, it is not ideal. Despite what people think, cleaning a computer can be very dirty, so it is recommended to work in a well-ventilated area where it is easy to get rid of the dust that we will be cleaning.

Step 5. Open your computer

Once you've decided on the right place to work, open your computer. This may vary depending on the machine. If you have a user manual, it is a good idea to refer to it. Most computers have screws that hold a side panel, after removing these screws you can open it.

Step 6. Get ready to clean it

After opening the computer, you will need to use either the canned air or the air compressor. As mentioned before, it is recommended to wear a dust mask during this step. Never touch the inside of your computer unless it is completely necessary, as it can cause an electric shock capable of damaging internal components of the machine. To avoid this, simply touch any other metal surface to discharge any static energy that may be building up on you.

Step 7. Start cleaning

Use compressed air to remove the dust that is inside the machine. It is better to start at the top and continue to the bottom, in this way it will be easier to clean the dust that is accumulated in the lower part of the machine. Make sure that the fans do not reach when they rotate because there are some pellets in them that can become out of calibration causing a possible malfunction in the future, in addition to that if you are cleaning the voltage source, the rotation of the fan will generate electricity. Be thorough but at the same time careful not to damage cables or components. Also keep the airflow at a reasonable distance to avoid damaging sensitive components.

• NOTE: Be very careful when using compressed air, be sure to hold the can at a vertical angle. If inverted, it could cause compressed air to be expelled in liquid form, which can cause serious damage to the computer.

  

• Compressed air is very cold when it comes out of the can, which can cause frost on the components of the machine, try to avoid it.

  

• There will be a lot of dust while cleaning the machine, try not to breathe it. If the PC is very dusty, it is better to clean it in the open air.

  

Step 8. Make sure the heat sink fan is clean

It sits directly on the processor and if its fan fails, it can cause overheating that will ruin the processor.

Step 9. Inspect the inside and outside of the computer, make sure you have cleaned up all the dust and when you are sure it is gone, reassemble the computer, just make sure not to force the panels when you do

Step 10. Clean the work area

Depending on your work area, you may need a small vacuum to clean the space around your computer. Remember not to use this vacuum cleaner to clean the inside of the computer. Consider leaving the machine uncovered until the airborne dust settles, then clean the machine a second time to make it as clean as possible.

Step 11. Close your machine

After you have finished cleaning, put the panels back and turn the screws you removed. Once closed, return the computer to its place and connect any cables that you have disconnected. It will be good to clean the area where you keep your computer to get rid of materials that can contribute to excess dust. If you turned off the main switch, be sure to turn it on again, as the machine will not start if you don't. A clean computer will work much faster than one full of dust and dirt.

Video. By using this service, some information could be shared with YouTube

Advice

• Wear a dust mask to avoid sneezing and irritation, especially if you have breathing problems.
• Cleaning the machine outdoors can save you the effort of cleaning the work area. An open garage and a clean work table would be the ideal area for cleaning. Just make sure there is no trash or debris getting into the machine as it could seriously damage it. You can also buy filters for floor vents, these will help keep dust out of your machine.

Warnings

• Never use feather dusters, or any type of cleaning cloth, as these can create static electricity which damages electrical components. Other ways to avoid electric shock would be to wear latex gloves and not work on carpets or rugs.
• Blowing into the computer is not recommended, as it does not give many results and by doing so you run the risk of spitting on the electrical components.
• Do not touch the internal components of the computer, it is not necessary. The less contact you make with these components, the better.
• Although the process explained above is very safe, cleaning can cause unexpected problems. If a particle were to land in the wrong place, it could cause problems. However, the benefits of cleaning equipment outweigh the risk. In addition, failure to clean the computer can cause failures, which will cause overheating and eventually total system failure.
• Always hold your can of compressed air correctly, as mentioned above; An inverted can can expel liquid instead of air.

• Warning: depending on the manufacturer, opening the equipment could void the warranty.